Five couples from greater Wellington region and pilot died in balloon crash. Balloon crash witness David McKinlay from Carterton saw the crash. A nurse who was one of the first on the scene of today's fatal hot air balloon crash in Wairapara risked her life trying to save the lives of two people who had tried to jump clear.

Eleven people were killed when the balloon burst into flames and crashed to the ground near
Carterton early this morning. The balloon was owned by Lance Hopping, of Ballooning NZ, and it is believed he was the pilot today. Smiles and waves from those on board the dawn holiday flight over the peaceful town turned to screams, when the balloon hit powerlines and plunged to the ground in flames.

Nurse Jacqui O'Connor, 38, was at the Carterton Campground on holiday with her family when she saw the accident. She was second on the scene, dodging live power lines in a bid